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 Japan.
A country synonymous with fast-paced technology, traditional and
cultural insularity and much historical activity. It is little wonder
then that this particular country elicits a great deal of interest and
tourist trade not only from the locals but also from foreign lands.
First thing tourists would probably want to know is where they may stay
during their visit to Japan. Here is a list of some of the most popular
hotels in Japan you may want to consider for your stay or else, save up
for, for that truly thrilling trip to this interesting and thoroughly
absorbing country:
1. Park Hyatt Tokyo (Tokyo; tel. 800/233-1234 in the U.S. and Canada)
Occupying the 39th to 52nd floors of a skyscraper designed by Kenzo
Tange, this might well be the most gorgeous and sophisticated hotel in
all of Japan, if not the world. Offering unparalleled views of the city,
one of Tokyo's hottest restaurants, rooms you could live in, and
legendary service, it's a must for anyone who can afford it.
2. Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Chinzan-so (Tokyo; tel. 800/332-3442)
Surrounded by a lush, 7-hectare (17-acre) garden, this top-rated hotel
is a wonderful respite in one of the world's most crowded cities, with
its impeccable service and a terrific spa and health club free for hotel
guests.
3. Nikko Kanaya Hotel (Nikko; tel. 0288/54-0001)
Dating from the 19th century, this rambling, old-fashioned hotel
combines the rustic charm of a European country lodge with design
elements of old Japan -- and it's just a 15-minute walk from Toshogu
Shrine.
4. The Fujiya Hotel (Hakone; tel. 0460/2-2211)
Established in 1878 and nestled on a wooded hillside, the Fujiya is one
of Japan's oldest, grandest, and most majestic Western-style hotels.
Resembling a Japanese ryokan from the outside, it boasts a comfortable
interior of detailed woodwork, old-fashioned antiques-filled guest
rooms, and a delightful 1930s dining hall. It also offers indoor/outdoor
pools, extensive landscaping, and hot-spring baths.
5. Kawana Hotel (Ito; tel. 0557/45-1111)
Built in 1936 to resemble an English country estate, this relaxed yet
refined hotel boasts large, manicured lawns that slope to the sea, and
two famous 18-hole golf courses. It's a great getaway from Tokyo.
6. The Westin Miyako (Kyoto; tel. 800/WESTIN-1 in the U.S. and Canada)
First built in 1890 but completely remodeled, this smartly appointed
hotel sprawls across more than 6.4 hectares (16 acres) of hilltop on the
eastern edge of town near many famous temples. Good views, a satellite
check-in counter at Kyoto Station, free shuttle service to the hotel,
indoor/outdoor swimming pools, a children's day-care center, a
tea-ceremony room, and a Japanese garden make this a winner. There's
even an annex with Japanese-style rooms as well.
7. Nara Hotel (Nara; tel. 0742/26-3300)
From far away, this 1909 building just a short walk from Nara Park
resembles a palace. Rooms in the main building have high ceilings,
antique light fixtures, and old-fashioned decor.
8. The Ritz-Carlton, Osaka (Osaka; tel. 800/241-3333 in the U.S. and
Canada):
This chain's first venture in Japan has the company's trademark
antiques, artwork, and intimate public spaces, as well as such pluses as
free access to its fitness center and large, well-appointed rooms. It's
not far from Osaka Station.
9. Unzen Kanko Hotel (Unzen; tel. 0957/73-3263)
This rustic mountain lodge of ivy-covered wood and stone was built in
1935 to cater to foreigners in search of Mount Unzen's cooler climate.
It offers a casual and relaxed atmosphere, hot-spring baths, and
comfortable, old-fashioned rooms not far from the Hells.
10. ANA Hotel Tokyo (Tokyo; tel:+81-3-3505-1111)
Ideally situated in the exclusive Ark Hills district, the ANA Hotel is
within walking distance of the central Kasumigaseki government offices,
Akasaki and nightlife of Roppongi. The Hotel is part of architectual
complex of international business and culture and connected to ARK Mori
Builing and Suntory Concert Hall. Located just 1 minute walk to New
Ginza line subway station. Each of the 901 guest rooms is elegantly
decorated, providing a tranquil, comfortable space where guests can
relax and unwind.
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